G. The Scottish Battle Line

Near here, probably a little higher up Branxton Hill, and stretching eastwards, was the Division under the direct command of King James IV. This was the largest Division on the field which included many members of the Scottish nobility, and some 9000 men armed with pikes.

From this vantage point, the King had watched the early success of his Vanguard and then the ongoing disaster in the Centre. But ahead, across the valley, he can see the pennant announcing the Earl of Surrey. James knows that if he can capture or kill Surrey the English will falter, perhaps run, and the day will be his. He can see that Surrey has far few men than he, but he knows that Surrey will soon be reinforced from his victorious Centre Division. James must act quickly.

King James now makes his fatal mistake. Wishing to share the risks of battle with his men he dismounts and marches down the slope heading directly for Surrey. But the ground conditions are the same here as they were in the Centre. In the valley the pikes falter in mud and lose their forward momentum. King James is in desperate danger. His fate now hangs in the balance.

⇒ Take the road down Branxton Hill into the valley and the Killing Fields Board.

Continue Tour >